2 November 2020

To Whom It May Concern:

Blake Over has asked me to write him a letter of recommendation, and I do so with great
pleasure. I am the ninth grade biology and anatomy teacher at the Hollidaysburg Area Junior High
School, Hollidaysburg, PA and am Blake’s mentor teacher for his student teaching assignment for the
fall semester of the 2020-2021 school year. His daily responsibilities include teaching five classes of
honors-level biology and two classes of anatomy & physiology.
Blake is a terrific addition to my classroom. From day one, he has been extremely helpful,
taking the initiative to assist me in many aspects of my job from routine chores to grading assignments
to making quizzes and lesson plans. As a matter of fact, he is in the midst of teaching my classes
entirely on his own. Due to COVID-19 regulations, I am currently in quarantine for the next two
weeks. When I informed Blake of my quarantine, he was understandably concerned, but there was
absolutely no hesitation on his part in “taking over the reins”. My students are in good hands!
Regarding planning and preparation, Blake knows in advance what he is going to teach. Also,
his daily lesson plans match the students’ abilities. For example, he has learned very quickly how
much material to cover in a 45-minute period, and he presents material that is appropriate and
challenging enough for the honors-level students he teaches. Additionally, his knowledge base is
extensive; he capably answers a vast majority of the students’ questions. And if he doesn’t know the
answer, he makes sure to find it and then explain it to the students.
Blake is exceptionally responsible. On top of his daily teaching responsibilities, he is required
to complete numerous assignments for Saint Francis, many of which he wisely completed at the
beginning of the semester well before he was teaching a full schedule. Currently, he is constructing a
cell division chapter which will consist of a PowerPoint, test, quiz, lab, worksheets, and online
activities. More importantly, though, Blake senses a responsibility to teaching the students and making
sure they understand the concepts that are taught.
Blake’s ability to work and interact with teenagers is improving. Because of his somewhat shy
nature, he has some hesitation in engaging in conversation with them, but I am confident he will
develop that skill as he becomes more comfortable as a teacher.
If I had a similar position to fill, I would hire Blake; he’s the kind of teacher I would want my
own children to have. I am thankful to have the opportunity to mentor Blake. I recommend him with
absolutely no reservations.
If I can be of further assistance, please contact me via email (andrew.tinker@hasdtigers.com)
or phone (work: 814-695-4426 / cell: 814-330-5834).

Sincerely,

Andrew Tinker